DNA analysis confirms that wolf GW3237m was removed from the population by culling last week. On the advice of wolf experts, municipalities, land management organizations (TBOs), and the Province of Utrecht have therefore immediately withdrawn the avoidance advice for estates and forest and nature areas between the A12 and A28. Other advice remains in effect.
Problem Wolf
Wolf GW3237m was involved in several serious incidents this year on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. At the beginning of July, the Province of Utrecht issued a culling permit for this wolf. After a new biting incident, municipalities, land management organizations, and the province issued an avoidance advice for the area at the beginning of August. Now that the problem wolf has been removed from the population, the immediate threat and thus the avoidance advice are lifted. The other general advice in wolf habitats remains in effect.
With the removal of wolf GW3237m from the population, the culling permit issued by the province is revoked. In accordance with the applicable procedure, the permit holder reports to the supervisor, the Regional Implementation Service (RUD), that the permitted activity has been carried out.
Current Advice
The Utrechtse Heuvelrug is a popular place for various activities and attracts many visitors. Wolves also live in the area. Therefore, wolf experts advise visitors to stay on the paths, keep dogs on a leash, and keep children in sight. It is also advised to be extra alert during activities such as running and horseback riding because speed can be a trigger for wolves. For more information and the current advice, visit the webpage with information for residents and visitors.
Cooperation
The now withdrawn avoidance advice was established, after advice from wolf experts, through cooperation between the municipalities of Woudenberg, Utrechtse Heuvelrug, Zeist, and Leusden, Staatsbosbeheer, Utrechts Landschap, Landgoed Den Treek-Henschoten, the Regional Implementation Service Utrecht (RUD), and the Province of Utrecht.
For press information:
cor.van.der.leemputten@provincie-utrecht.nl
06 14 75 81 45
